MTU Series 8000 engines get a power boost

OCTOBER 23, 2012 – MTU chose this week's Euronaval event in Paris to announce that its Series 8000 engines are now available with an output of 10 MW. Previously, the 20-cylinder engine had a maximum output of 9,100 kW. MTU says the IMO Tier II-compliant unit demonstrated its increased power and reliability during a project-specific endurance run over 1,500 hours under tropical conditions.

Series 8000 engines now cover a power range from 7,200 kW to 10,000kW enabling MTU to offer economically efficient, diesel-based propulsion solutions producing up to 40 MW per vessel.

Since their introduction in 2000, Series 8000 engines have set a benchmark for modern diesel propulsion plants in their power range. More than 130 units are currently in operation with a range of international customers and 40 more are on order, making Series 8000 the top seller in its performance class.

At Euronaval, MTU is showcasing a cut-away model of the Series 1163 main propulsion engine. The unit is available in 12V, 16V and 20V cylinder configurations covering the power range 4,440 kW to 7,400 kW and is currently in operation in frigates and coast guard vessels among others. Compliance with IMO Tier II emission targets is achieved using purely in-engine technology and without exhaust after treatment systems. It is envisaged that engines projected for IMO Tier III limits, due to come into force from 2016, will meet emissions targets using SCR technology.

MTU's exhibits also include a model vessel with a combined diesel engine and gas turbine propulsion system (CODAG – Combined Diesel and Gas).

The company's propulsion portfolio for naval vessels is rounded off with charging units for submarines. The advanced-development version of the submarine diesel generator unit based on the Series 4000 and producing 1,300 kW will be available from 2016.

As a systems provider, MTU also offers automation tailored for naval vessels. It says its user-friendly automation system Callosum, which was developed in-house, facilitates straightforward monitoring and control of propulsion plant and all the associated technical functions aboard the vessel.